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Merle Montalvo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am a social worker licensed at LCSW level in Mississippi. Sometimes we need someone to help us make needed changes or keep track of how we’re doing with the many ways we and our lives can change. Becoming a social worker was a midlife transition for me. “It’s never too late.” was a saying that became a mantra as I learned from challenges related to making a new life 30+ years ago. But now, with a stronger cognitive perspective, I’d change that to, “It’s not too late right now”. My cultural background is mixed. To me, each person is unique, but our common humanity makes us alike. My experience is broad including : outpatient, inpatient, IOP, home health and hospice. I take an eclectic approach towards working with others, so that I can fit what I offer to your individual needs. Modalities and techniques I can bring to our work include: humanistic, insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, wholistic, and solution focused .

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Emily Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

Hi, I'm glad you're here! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with 6.5 years of experience providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling. I have worked with individuals ages six through adult with a variety of behavioral/mental health presenting issues such as: anxiety, depression, concentration/ADHD, anger, phase-of-life problems, relationship and family issues, sexuality concerns, and many more. My goal is to always provide a safe, respect-filled environment to build therapeutic relationships. My experience is varied, as I have provided individual, group and family therapy throughout my career as a therapist. I feel strongly that our belief systems impact how a person thinks about, experiences, and reacts to activating events within their life. In turn, how those activating events were experienced impacts the individual's responses to their world moving forward. I believe that all individuals are heavily influenced by our closest relationships, communities, environment, systems (family, work, school, church, etc) and personal experiences. I strive to treat the therapeutic relationship, and you, with compassion, respect, and warmth. My therapy style and approach is influenced by Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy primarily as well as Person-Centered Therapy. It is extremely important to me to be able to collaborate with you to tailor my treatment and approach to what works best for you. No one knows you better than you do, so setting and realizing your goals is a team-effort. Making the step to begin therapy can cause a jumble of emotions that may range from fear and anxiety to excitement and hopefulness. Whatever feelings you may be experiencing, please know that they are normal. I know taking this step takes courage, and I am here to empower and support you on your journey.

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Mary Johnson-Waldington

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S,ACS,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

My name is Mary Johnson-Waldington. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S), Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Mental Health Therapist (CMHT). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have 17 years of counseling and supervision experience in outpatient and school based settings. I have experience working with children/adolescents and families/couples providing individual therapy, family therapy, couple therapy, group therapy, and crisis management. I have extensive training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Also, trained in TeleMental Health. My orientation to counseling is based on cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. However, I employ eclectic techniques in counseling to best fit each client. I believe that the primary process of counseling involves helping clients to find the resources within themselves in order to develop requisite skills and address themes related to their presenting problem(s) or underlying issues. My focus is to help clients gain insight into their concerns, gain an empowered sense of self, internalize a range of coping skills, and minimize negative influences.

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Sarah O’Brien

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
9 years of experience

My name is Sarah O’Brien and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Mississippi with nine years of experience with working with children and adolescents ranging in ages 4-18, as well as working with adults. I have worked with Clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to anxiety, parenting problems, relationship issues, autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. I have experience with working with the LGBTQ+ community and have been trained in EMDR therapy. I believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect. My counseling style is warm and interactive and I approach counseling through a client-centered approach where the client takes an active role in making positive changes for their lives. I believe in tailoring a treatment plan and session to session dialogues to meet each person’s needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Mary Griffith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 15 years of experience working as a Behavioral Health Specialist. I have experience working with children and adults with emotional and behavior problems. I have worked with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as psychiatric and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. My counseling style is nonjudgmental, compassionate, interactive, and inviting. I believe in treating each client with dignity and respect. My approach combines Person-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy focusing on thoughts and behaviors, and the importance of being your true self in order to live your most fulfilling life. I will tailor each session and treatment plan to meet specific goals and needs. For most people, seeking counseling is a giant step and it takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to work on having a more meaningful life, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Kayla Felker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 5 years of therapy experience. I received my BSW from the University of North Alabama and began working in community mental health. I served as case manager, on-site supervised apartments manager, and group psychosocial rehabilitation supervisor. I then obtained my Masters from Western New Mexico. I have experience in Individual therapy, group/family counseling, therapy with children/youth, addiction, trauma, serious mental Illnesses, terminal illness, child welfare, and christian counseling . While you may be struggling with a mental health symptom or diagnosis, it does not have to dictate your life. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. J'Kea Starks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Tabatha Kenney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Mississippi with over 25 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients that are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, low self esteem, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues and career counseling. I provide caring non judgmental therapy with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My goal is always to work with clients to help them be the best version of themselves and to assist them lead a more fulfilling and happier life and create a New Vision for life. I am here to listen, support and empower the client in their journey.

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Lisa Moffett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado, Nevada and Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ariel Kinsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Ashland
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. My education and ongoing training is providing me with the tools and resources needed to service the unique needs of my clients. My priority is to provide a supportive and safe environment as you strive to achieve your therapeutic goals.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ashland

Finding the best therapist close by in Ashland can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Ashland that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Ashland. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ashland, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Ashland region and in the state of Mississippi. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Ashland or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Ashland therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Ashland area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Ashland, elsewhere in Benton, or in the greater state of Mississippi. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ashland area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ashland therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ashland due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Ashland may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Mississippi you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Ashland online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ashland, Mississippi working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Ashland psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ashland above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Ashland provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Ashland?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ashland therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Ashland therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Ashland therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MS, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 38603 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Ashland counselor?

Before seeing your Ashland therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Ashland therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Ashland licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Ashland counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Ashland, Mississippi can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Ashland has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Ashland, Mississippi

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Ashland therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Ashland.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Ashland:

38603

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